Staff from Spectrum Health’s Medication Assisted Treatment Team will offer free training on the use of Narcan (naloxone) on Monday, Sept. 16, from 1 to 4:30 p.m., at the West Seneca Community Center & Library, 1300 Union Road. This Is a change of day and time from the usual Friday engagements: the team will resume its Friday schedule on Oct. 11.
Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Knowing how to properly administer Narcan to someone who may have accidentally over-used a prescription pain medication or who used a street drug that was laced with a powerful additive can help save lives. The training takes only two minutes.
“Death from accidental drug overdose, regrettably, is rising,” said Ann Bowback, director of Spectrum Health’s Medication Assisted Treatment program, “particularly among people who are older than 40 years of age. In 2023, of all the overdose deaths in Erie County, there more people over the age of 40 than the younger cohort.”
Anyone who completes the Narcan training will also receive a free Narcan kit, courtesy of the Erie County Department of Health. Staff will also share information on Spectrum Health services and other community resources. Narcan is an important first aid tool. Just like keeping bandages and medicated ointment on hand, knowing how to administer Narcan and having a dose available is a good proactive measure.
Spectrum Health also operates a full-service counseling center at 326 Orchard Park Road in West Seneca.
Spectrum Health & Human Services provides mental health, addiction, rehabilitation, care coordination, housing and crisis services in locations throughout Western New York. Founded in 1973, it is also a Certified Community Behavioral Health Center (CCBHC). Visit www.shswny.org for more information.
